Helpful Tips For Defendants in the Criminal Justice System
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The wheels of justice grind slowly, but grind they do. Here are a couple pointers to keep in mind if you find yourself a participant in the court system.
- DRESS APPROPRIATELY
A judge sees dozens of defendants in a day and barely speaks to any of them. You never have a second chance to make a first impression, and your courtroom attire says a lot about your attitude. Help yourself make a favorable impression with a neat and clean appearance.
- BE ON TIME
A judge is mindful of two scarce resources – time and the court budget. The best way for a judge to conserve the limited supply of either is to require that everybody be prepared and ready to go when a matter is called. What is the tip here? There is no better way to make a judge mad than to show up late for court. Unless you don’t show up at all.
- BE RESPECTFUL
Always show respect for the court. Answer the judge’s questions with confidence. Look the judge in the eye when you speak with him or her and always answer, “Yes, sir” and “No, sir.”
- BE PREPARED
Bring your supporting documents with you. You say your license was not suspended when they arrested you for driving on a suspended license? Bring the letter from DMV supporting your claim. Arrested for a speeding ticket 5 years ago that you swear you paid? Bring a copy of the cancelled check to court with you. Get the idea?
- HIRE A GOOD LAWYER
Forget all the bad jokes. A lawyer is your best friend (next to Romelli Bail Bonds). How do you find a good lawyer? Ask around. Talk to your friends and other people that might be in a position to know. And once you’ve got that good lawyer, wait to talk to him or her in a private and secure place OUTSIDE the courtroom.